Other than what's already out there on the market, has anyone contemplated the complete replacement of the Delanair unit with a completely modern AC system that will fit in the Delanair box. I'm thinking something using parts from a Nissan Maxima (2014+), like more powerful fans, better Evaporator, a recirc sysyem that actually works, modern controls, modern compressor, etc. I'm tempted to start a winter project. I think I can purchase a used Delanair box/fans from a Robert here in Niagara - if he has one lying about and start tinkering. Hell, it may end up as a viable commercial venture, although that is not my driving force.

 

Go for it, definitely. The vintage air system is a proven unit but those who have put it in an XJ6 had to do surgery, etc. Could that system be repackaged to just bolt right in? I'm not familiar with the unit you mentioned but it would be wonderful to buy a completely engineered unit that would provide modern performance and look stock. Good luck. You have a lot of enthusiasts cheering for you.

 

Most later model car's AC systems control airflow direction with stepper motors controlled by an ECU. Communication to and from sensors/actuators is usually over a CAN bus where digital 'packets' of information flows with other 'packets' from other systems onboard the car. I'm no expert, but I've heard that the CAN bus can be hacked, but from the descriptions I've read of this, it is way beyond my ability. I would think that the control system would be your biggest challenge.

If installation of available units require 'surgery' as Yellow series 3 suggests, perhaps an installation kit for the XJ6 that was well engineered using the Vintage Air unit would be commercially viable? (The local Vintage Air dealer in Phoenix has a 'dummy' unit you can borrow to see how it fits in your project car)

Whatever you decide, keep us posted on your progress.

 

Unlike the Series 1, the Delanair system in the Series 2&3 is an actual self contained unit. I would think that the Vintage air system could sit in the same space without any cutting. You can see from this youtube video that it is much larger than the Vintage air units. I would look at the VA Gen3 system.

 

I have been deep into both Series 2 and 3 HVAC systems, and I don't even want to Think what it takes to isolate the Matrix as it's shown in the above video! I've actually tried that but was unsuccessful as I didn't have a chop saw.
"Step One: Completely disassemble the car.
Step Two; Remove Matrix and modify as desired.
Step Three; Reverse disassembly procedure."

Easy Peasy.
(';')

 

"I've actually tried that but was unsuccessful as I didn't have a chop saw. " Nix hid it.